Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to link up with Mason Greenwood in shock return to Marseille after Saudi Arabia stint
Could play alongside Greenwood
Saudi journey lasted just a year
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WHAT HAPPENED?
Fabrizio Romano has given Aubameyang the 'here we go' treatment, reporting on X that the 36-year-old has verbally agreed a two-year deal with the French giants, where he will get the opportunity to play in the Champions League next season. The post reveals that the Gabon international captain rejected rival moves from Saudi Arabia to return to his former club on a free transfer, having had his Al-Qadsiah contract terminated.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Aubameyang enjoyed a quietly prolific season with Marseille in 2023/24, hitting 30 goals in 51 matches, including 10 goals in the French outfit's run to the Europa League semi-finals. His return will be a welcome one for OM, who nevertheless finished second in Ligue 1 last season with a strike-force which included the controversial figures of Mason Greenwood and Neal Maupay. Greenwood was undeniably effective despite the scrutiny his move from Manchester United brought, scoring 21 Ligue 1 goals in his first season for the club. He may now link up with another former Premier League star in Aubameyang.
DID YOU KNOW?
Aubameyang's 30-goal return in his previous season with Marseille was his highest since hitting just one more for Arsenal in 2018/19. After opting for a move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Qadsiah, the former Gunner maintained his strong form in front of goal with a further 21 goals in all competitions. With this evidence, Marseille and head coach Roberto De Zerbi will be confident that Aubameyang can continue to provide the goods on his return to the south of France.
WHAT NEXT FOR AUBAMEYANG?
With his return to Marseille set to be officially announced in the coming days, Aubameyang will look forward to a return to Europe to play out the twilight years of his career. The rapid frontman has scored 355 career goals and knows Ligue 1 well, having spent five previous seasons playing there, including spells with Lille, Monaco and Saint-Etienne early in his career. It may be a nigh-on impossible task to knock European champions PSG off their perch, but De Zerbi's side will have a first run in the new-look Champions League phase to look forward to.
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